Search - Ludwig van Beethoven, Patrick Cohen, Christophe Coin :: Beethoven: Sonatas for Piano & Cello Op. 5, Nos. 1 & 2

Beethoven's early Cello Sonatas were really written for piano with cello accompaniment, but it is still important to hear both parts. Excellent musicians can balance their instruments properly, but the task is easier, and sometimes more convincing, using instruments from Beethoven's time. This experienced duo usesironically a modern reconstruction of an early cello but an authentic early Walter fortepiano. They play the music with quite natural balance and easy, unforced musicianship. The disc isn't very long (51:12) and it makes a fine alternative to versions by modern instrument celebrities like Yo-Yo Ma and Emanuel Ax or Msistlav Rostropovich and Sviatoslav Richter. --Leslie Gerber